DFW Theater Review: ‘Alan Cumming’ Was Fantastic

During his 2014 run of Cabaret at Studio 54, Alan Cumming held nightly after-parties in his dressing room, which he and his friends called “Club Cumming.” These get-togethers inspired Cumming to record the album Alan Cumming Sings Sappy Songs in 2015, on which he sings several of his favorite numbers from Club Cumming.

Alan Cumming brought Club Cumming to Dallas last Friday night, with his performance of the entire album. The performance was approximately ninety minutes, but the time flew by, as Cumming is a true showman and highly entertaining. The set was equal parts moving and hilarious, and the line-up included songs from Miley Cyrus and Billy Joel, along with a mash-up of Adele, Lady Gaga, and Katy Perry.

Cumming was backed by three musicians – pianist Lance Horne, cellist Eleanor Norton, and a drummer – whom he graciously acknowledged multiple times during the performance. All seemed to be having a good time, giving the audience the feeling that they were watching four accomplished musicians noodling around on their respective instruments and having a good time. Combined with the smaller size of Dallas City Performance Hall, the show had the feeling of an intimate get-together.

If you missed this fantastic performance, you can get some idea of what it’s like by listening to Alan Cumming Sings Sappy Songs. The track list is pretty much the same, and some of the same stories are there, but you will miss the fantastic facial expressions and gestures that accompany his story-telling. Nothing compares to seeing Mr. Cumming performing live.